Titan Manga is set to publish J-ta Yamada’s “Eko Eko Azarak Reborn” manga, bringing back the chilling world of witchcraft and dark magic to English-speaking audiences. The first volume is scheduled for release on April 28, 2026, available in both physical and digital formats at bookstores, comic shops, and online retailers. This supernatural horror manga is a remake of Shinichi Koga’s classic “Eko Eko Azarak” series, which captivated readers from 1975 to 1979.
A Modern Reimagining of a Horror Classic
J-ta Yamada’s “Eko Eko Azarak Reborn” breathes new life into Shinichi Koga’s original manga, which was serialized in Akita Shoten’s Weekly Shonen Champion. The remake ran in Akita Shoten’s Champion Red magazine from March 19, 2020, to March 17, 2023, producing five tankobon volumes.
Synopsis
Titan Manga describes the plot of “Eko Eko Azarak Reborn” as follows:
“Eko Eko Azarak Reborn brings the terrifying world of witchcraft, demons, and dark magic back to life in this chilling remake of the 1975-79 classic. Misa Kuroi, a powerful witch awakened by humanity’s darkest desires, is summoned by a mysterious stranger and sent on a harrowing journey into Hell. Facing both her dark past and Lucifer himself, Misa must confront unimaginable horrors and unlock her true power to survive.”
The story centers around Misa Kuroi, a formidable witch whose powers are awakened by the darkest aspects of human desire. Summoned by a mysterious figure, Misa embarks on a perilous journey into the depths of Hell, confronting her past and battling Lucifer himself. To survive, she must confront unimaginable horrors and unlock the full potential of her powers.
The Legacy of “Eko Eko Azarak”
Shinichi Koga’s original “Eko Eko Azarak” manga left an indelible mark on the horror genre. Serialized from September 1, 1975, to March 1979, in Akita Shoten’s Weekly Shonen Champion, the series spanned 19 volumes and introduced readers to the enigmatic Misa Kuroi, a high school student who is secretly a powerful witch.
Misa Kuroi: A Witch Fighting for Justice
Misa Kuroi is portrayed as a seemingly ordinary high school student who possesses extraordinary occult abilities. Using brutal dark magic, she fights for justice against various supernatural threats. The original manga explored themes of good versus evil, the corrupting influence of power, and the hidden darkness within society.
Adaptations and Cultural Impact
The popularity of “Eko Eko Azarak” led to numerous adaptations across various media, including:
- Live-Action Films: Six live-action films were produced between 1995 and 2006, bringing Misa Kuroi’s story to the big screen.
- Television Dramas: Two live-action television drama series aired in 1997 and 2004, further expanding the “Eko Eko Azarak” universe.
- Original Video Animation (OVA): A two-episode OVA series was released in 2007, offering a different take on the classic manga.
- Video Games: Two video games were inspired by the series, allowing fans to interact with the world of “Eko Eko Azarak” in a new way.
These adaptations helped solidify “Eko Eko Azarak” as a cultural touchstone in Japan, influencing subsequent horror manga and anime. The series’ blend of supernatural horror, high school drama, and occult themes resonated with audiences, inspiring a generation of creators.
The Meaning Behind the Chant
The title “Eko Eko Azarak” itself has intriguing origins. It is believed to be derived from a Wiccan chant, also known as the “Witch’s Rune” or the “Eko Eko Chant.” The phrase gained prominence through Gerald Gardner, considered the founder of Wicca as an organized religion, who used it in his 1949 occult novel, “High Magic’s Aid.”
While the precise meaning of the chant remains obscure, it is thought to invoke ancient gods and goddesses. The use of this phrase in the manga adds to its mystique and connects it to real-world occult traditions.
J-ta Yamada: The Artist Behind the Rebirth
J-ta Yamada is a Japanese manga artist known for his diverse works, including “Asatte no Houkou” (Living for the Day After Tomorrow), which was adapted into an anime series. He has also worked on other manga such as “Majina!” and “Gifuto,” and contributed to various projects as an illustrator and artist.
Other Notable Works
Besides “Eko Eko Azarak Reborn,” Yamada’s notable works include:
- Asatte no Houkou (Living for the Day After Tomorrow): A manga series about a young girl and an adult woman who swap ages due to a magical wish.
- King’s Game: Origin: A manga adaptation of Nobuaki Kanazawa’s popular mobile phone novel, “King’s Game.”
- JK Haru is a Sex Worker in Another World: Yamada provided the art for the manga adaptation of this light novel series.
Yamada’s skill in creating compelling characters and atmospheric settings makes him an ideal choice to revitalize “Eko Eko Azarak” for a new generation of readers.
Titan Manga: Bringing Horror to the World
Titan Manga is a renowned publisher dedicated to bringing diverse and captivating manga titles to English-speaking audiences. With a focus on quality and innovation, Titan Manga has established itself as a leading voice in the industry, introducing readers to new worlds and unforgettable characters. By licensing “Eko Eko Azarak Reborn,” Titan Manga continues its mission of showcasing the best in international manga.
Release Details
The first volume of “Eko Eko Azarak Reborn” is scheduled for release on April 28, 2026. Fans can pre-order the manga from select retailers, including Forbidden Planet in the U.K. As the release date approaches, more information about availability and pricing will be announced.
Why You Should Be Excited
The upcoming release of “Eko Eko Azarak Reborn” is an exciting event for manga fans, especially those who appreciate horror and the supernatural. Here’s why you should be eagerly anticipating this title:
- A Fresh Take on a Classic: J-ta Yamada’s remake offers a modern perspective on Shinichi Koga’s iconic series, appealing to both longtime fans and new readers.
- Intriguing Story: The plot promises a thrilling journey into the depths of Hell, with Misa Kuroi facing unimaginable horrors and unlocking her true potential.
- Stunning Artwork: Yamada’s art style brings the world of “Eko Eko Azarak” to life, with detailed character designs and atmospheric backgrounds.
- Cultural Significance: “Eko Eko Azarak” has a rich history and cultural impact, influencing numerous works in the horror genre.
- Titan Manga’s Seal of Quality: Titan Manga is known for its commitment to quality and innovation, ensuring a top-notch reading experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned manga reader or new to the genre, “Eko Eko Azarak Reborn” is a title that deserves your attention. With its blend of supernatural horror, compelling characters, and stunning artwork, this manga promises to be a standout release in 2026.
